Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Empire, Nevada. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, family-owned business that is the primary local service provider for the entire Gerlach-Empire region. They are known for their rapid response times for emergencies, which is critical in this remote area, and their deep familiarity with the specific plumbing challenges of rural and high-desert properties.
Based in the town of Nixon on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation, this licensed and insured contractor serves a wide rural area, including Empire. They offer a full suite of plumbing services and are particularly skilled in new pipe installation and replacement for both homes and local businesses.
While based further away in Fernley, this highly-rated company explicitly lists Empire and Gerlach within its extended service area. They are a larger operation with advanced equipment for leak detection and hydro-jetting, making them an excellent choice for complex issues like slab leaks or severely blocked sewer lines that require specialized tools.
** The plumbing market serving Empire, Nevada, is characterized by its rural and remote nature. There is no local competition within the town itself, creating a reliance on a small number of regional contractors from Gerlach, Nixon, and Fernley. The average quality of service is high, as these businesses have built their reputation on serving widespread communities where reliability is paramount. **Competition Level:** Low within Empire itself, but the regional providers are established and trusted. The barrier to entry for new companies is high due to the vast geographic area and low population density. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically higher than in urban areas like Reno due to significant travel time and mileage charges ("truck roll" fees). Emergency and after-hours services command a substantial premium. Customers should expect to pay for the expertise and willingness of contractors to service such a remote location. It is always recommended to request an estimate that clearly outlines both service and travel costs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Empire regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Empire, Nevada.
Empire's arid climate and notoriously hard water lead to accelerated mineral scale buildup inside pipes, water heaters, and fixtures. This reduces water flow, efficiency, and appliance lifespan. We recommend installing a whole-house water softener and scheduling annual descaling of your water heater to prevent costly repairs and improve performance.
While material costs are similar statewide, labor rates in Empire and rural Northern Nevada can be slightly higher than in metro areas like Reno due to travel distances for providers. However, you often avoid the premium "big city" emergency fees. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes potential trip charges, as some companies service a wide area from Gerlach to the Black Rock Desert.
Yes, Empire is within Washoe County's jurisdiction for building and plumbing codes. All major work requires permits and inspections to ensure compliance with state-adopted codes, which are crucial for safety and property value. Furthermore, given the remote location, using a licensed, insured local plumber familiar with county procedures is essential to avoid delays and ensure proper documentation.
The most frequent emergencies are frozen/burst pipes during sudden winter cold snaps and water heater failures due to sediment buildup from hard water. Response times can vary from a few hours to a full day depending on a plumber's location and current call volume, especially during extreme weather. Proactive winterization of exposed pipes is critical given our temperature swings.
Prioritize plumbers licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board (search their online license check) and who carry both liability insurance and a Nevada contractor's license bond. Given the small community, ask for local references from neighbors. A reputable plumber will understand the specific challenges of our well water systems, soil conditions, and freeze cycles.